As Zambia continues to experience steady rainfall, the water level at Lake Kariba has shown a slight increase, rising to 475.87 meters, according to data provided by the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA).

Zesco limited spokesperson Matongo Maumbi says while this is a positive development from the minimum operational level of 475.50 meters, it remains significantly below last year’s levels of 477.28 meters, and the reservoir’s usable storage is still critically low. ZRA data shows that usable storage at the reservoir is critically low at just 2.61%, compared to 12.32% at this time last year.

Mr. Maumbi says the rising water level is encouraging but the amount of water available for hydropower generation remains insufficient for sustainable operations, especially given the unpredictable nature of regional rainfall patterns.

He says Zesco recognizes the challenges that power rationing has posed to households, businesses, and the economy however, its primary responsibility is to safeguard the long-term functionality of Lake Kariba as a critical electricity resource.

Mr. Maumbi says increasing power generation prematurely could exhaust the reservoir further, leaving the nation vulnerable if the rains do not continue.

He has further urged all Zambians to continue using electricity efficiently and adopt electricity-saving practices during this period.